Investment in fleet of electric vehicles for port

A fleet of new, electric, forklift trucks have arrived at the Port of Hull.

The investment of nearly £200,000 is part of an ongoing effort to reduce emissions and make more use of renewable energy generated at the port.

Historically a great deal of the work has been undertaken by diesel powered forklift trucks, but as Associated British Ports (ABP) continues to invest in providing modern and agile port operations, the shift to electric is key for reducing emissions and streamlining operations.

The six, new, electric Linde forklifts will be based at the retail warehouse, adjacent to the Humber Container Terminal, on the Port of Hull.

The warehouse has the capacity to store 4,800 pallets of cargo, and it is this cargo the electric forklifts will be used to manoeuvre.

Simon Bird, director of ABP Humber, said: “Investing in ABP infrastructure, equipment and skills here on the Humber enables us to service our customers effectively and help to grow their businesses.

“Investing in a range of hybridised and electric machinery available across the port will serve our port operations well, as we all work to reduce emissions.”

The vehicles’ rechargeable batteries are easy to remove and charge within a 12 hour period ensuring the vehicles are ready to go when required.

ABP is currently installing a 6.8 million solar array at the Port of Hull, set to be completed by contractors Custom Solar later this year.

Longer term the electric forklifts will be charged from the energy supplied by this solar array, helping to future proof the ports retail operation.

Training on the new forklifts has begun, with ABP’s operators appreciating the improved view of their cargo load and surroundings, manoeuvrability, and comfort.

Bird added: “Safety is ABP’s number one priority and these vehicles have enhanced features to keep operators working in the retail warehouse safe.”

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